Comedy, as it turns out, is quite subjective. Folks have some strong opinions about what does and does not make them laugh. Thankfully, strong opinions are exactly what we’re looking for.
The 21st century has been particularly kind to comedy on TV, so we wanted to honor that with not one but two lists of the best comedy TV shows of 2000s. Below you can find our choices for the best American shows (and a Canadian show or two popular enough with American audiences to be considered eligible). You can find our choices for the best British TV comedy shows over here.
Bear in mind that only shows that premiered in the year 2000 or later are included, which explains why some popular shows that began in the ’90s but lingered into the aughts aren’t here. Now let us know your strong comedic opinions in the comments.
Note: This...
The 21st century has been particularly kind to comedy on TV, so we wanted to honor that with not one but two lists of the best comedy TV shows of 2000s. Below you can find our choices for the best American shows (and a Canadian show or two popular enough with American audiences to be considered eligible). You can find our choices for the best British TV comedy shows over here.
Bear in mind that only shows that premiered in the year 2000 or later are included, which explains why some popular shows that began in the ’90s but lingered into the aughts aren’t here. Now let us know your strong comedic opinions in the comments.
Note: This...
- 9/1/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
The existence of the 21st century itself is almost inconceivable. Ask any one who was around in 1999 how they felt about the incoming year 2000 and they’ll be happy to tell you how surreal it all felt. Hell, they may even be nice enough to give you a non-perishable treat from their Y2K bomb shelter.
The fact that we’re even in the 2000s and have been for many years feels like science fiction to begin with. It’s only fitting then that television, a very 20th century innovation, has been at our side the whole time to make sense of it.
Sci-fi TV in the 21st century was both a friendly companion and a bold boundary pusher. Whether it took us to the heights of outer space, alternate universes, or even just around the neighborhood, science fiction stories truly enriched our pop culture landscape. What follows are our...
The fact that we’re even in the 2000s and have been for many years feels like science fiction to begin with. It’s only fitting then that television, a very 20th century innovation, has been at our side the whole time to make sense of it.
Sci-fi TV in the 21st century was both a friendly companion and a bold boundary pusher. Whether it took us to the heights of outer space, alternate universes, or even just around the neighborhood, science fiction stories truly enriched our pop culture landscape. What follows are our...
- 8/10/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
After a successful month of true crime content thanks to the Ryan Murphy double feature of Dahmer and The Watcher, Netflix is digging back in to the documentary and docuseries world with its list of new releases for November 2022.
The true-crime-a-palooza begins on Nov. 2 with the release of Killer Sally. That will be followed by docuseries like Pepsi, Where’s My Jet on Nov. 17 and documentaries like State of Alabama vs. Brittany Smith on Nov. 10 and I Am Vanessa Guillen on Nov. 17. Of course, Netflix’s Original department is turning out some heavy hitting scripted series as well. The long-awaited Manifest season 4 part 1 arrives on Nov. 4. Arriving on Nov. 23 is the Tim Burton-directed Addams Family spinoff Wednesday. That will feature the titular young character as she investigates a murder spree at Nevermore Academy.
Read more TV Why Netflix Saved Manifest Season 4 By Michael Ahr Culture Charles Addams Biographer Defends...
The true-crime-a-palooza begins on Nov. 2 with the release of Killer Sally. That will be followed by docuseries like Pepsi, Where’s My Jet on Nov. 17 and documentaries like State of Alabama vs. Brittany Smith on Nov. 10 and I Am Vanessa Guillen on Nov. 17. Of course, Netflix’s Original department is turning out some heavy hitting scripted series as well. The long-awaited Manifest season 4 part 1 arrives on Nov. 4. Arriving on Nov. 23 is the Tim Burton-directed Addams Family spinoff Wednesday. That will feature the titular young character as she investigates a murder spree at Nevermore Academy.
Read more TV Why Netflix Saved Manifest Season 4 By Michael Ahr Culture Charles Addams Biographer Defends...
- 11/1/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Just a few months ago, Netflix appeared to be on a very rough track. Then Stranger Things season 4 came around and led to a less-apocalyptic-than-expected Q2 earnings report for the streamer. With its new releases for August 2022, however, Netflix is going to have to find another hit to keep the good vibes rolling. Here are some of their best options.
Perhaps the biggest breakout candidate for Netflix this month is The Sandman on Aug. 5. Though Neil Gaiman’s classic comic has long been thought to be unadaptable, the folks behind 10-episode series are betting they’re the ones for the job. Get ready to meet Morpheus, the king of dreams and the ruler of The Dreaming.
Read more TV The Sandman First Look and Character Posters Introduce Dream, Death, and Desire By Michael Ahr Books Neil Gaiman: How The Sandman Reinvents the Audiobook Format By Rosie Fletcher
August 2022 is full...
Perhaps the biggest breakout candidate for Netflix this month is The Sandman on Aug. 5. Though Neil Gaiman’s classic comic has long been thought to be unadaptable, the folks behind 10-episode series are betting they’re the ones for the job. Get ready to meet Morpheus, the king of dreams and the ruler of The Dreaming.
Read more TV The Sandman First Look and Character Posters Introduce Dream, Death, and Desire By Michael Ahr Books Neil Gaiman: How The Sandman Reinvents the Audiobook Format By Rosie Fletcher
August 2022 is full...
- 8/1/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
This article contains Stranger Things spoilers.
The Duffer Brothers may be the master storytellers behind the fictional tale of Stranger Things, but they also admit to taking inspiration from real life conspiracies and true crime stories. While longtime fans of the show may already know about the Montauk Project origins of the Hawkins Lab, some may not be aware that the tragically misplaced suspicion that Eddie Munson was under is also based on actual events in West Memphis, Arkansas in 1993.
The West Memphis Three were three teenagers who were accused of murdering three eight-year-old boys in what was presented to the press as a Satanic sacrifice. Heavy metal music of the type Eddie Munson would have undoubtedly enjoyed was mistaken for “the devil’s music” by police investigators at the time. Despite a lack of evidence, West Memphis residents and the authorities were quick to accuse the metal-loving, long-haired teenagers...
The Duffer Brothers may be the master storytellers behind the fictional tale of Stranger Things, but they also admit to taking inspiration from real life conspiracies and true crime stories. While longtime fans of the show may already know about the Montauk Project origins of the Hawkins Lab, some may not be aware that the tragically misplaced suspicion that Eddie Munson was under is also based on actual events in West Memphis, Arkansas in 1993.
The West Memphis Three were three teenagers who were accused of murdering three eight-year-old boys in what was presented to the press as a Satanic sacrifice. Heavy metal music of the type Eddie Munson would have undoubtedly enjoyed was mistaken for “the devil’s music” by police investigators at the time. Despite a lack of evidence, West Memphis residents and the authorities were quick to accuse the metal-loving, long-haired teenagers...
- 7/6/2022
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Just one month after debuting a fan favorite genre hit in the form of Stranger Things season 4, Netflix is once again coming out with the big guns for its list of new releases for June 2022.
The Umbrella Academy season 3 is set to be released June 22 and it will be a busy one for the Hargreeves family of crime fighters. After averting a 1963 nuclear apocalypse in season 2, the gang returns to the present only to find there’s a new team called the Sparrows living in their house. Based on the trailer for season 3, hilarity and many superpowers punches thrown will ensue.
Read more TV The Umbrella Academy Officially Introduces The Sparrow Academy By Alec Bojalad TV The Umbrella Academy Season 3: What To Expect By Michael Ahr
Other Netflix TV original series of note this month include the vampire love story First Kill (June 10) the Melissa McCarthy comedy God’s Favorite Idiot...
The Umbrella Academy season 3 is set to be released June 22 and it will be a busy one for the Hargreeves family of crime fighters. After averting a 1963 nuclear apocalypse in season 2, the gang returns to the present only to find there’s a new team called the Sparrows living in their house. Based on the trailer for season 3, hilarity and many superpowers punches thrown will ensue.
Read more TV The Umbrella Academy Officially Introduces The Sparrow Academy By Alec Bojalad TV The Umbrella Academy Season 3: What To Expect By Michael Ahr
Other Netflix TV original series of note this month include the vampire love story First Kill (June 10) the Melissa McCarthy comedy God’s Favorite Idiot...
- 6/1/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
This article contains major spoilers for Stranger Things season 4.
The identity of Vecna is one of the most closely guarded secrets of Stranger Things season 4, but the big reveal in the midseason finale is less about the name behind the creature and more about the origin story of Eleven and the opening of the Upside Down, a central mystery of the show. Although many gaps will have to be filled in with speculation, let’s take a closer look at exactly what we know and don’t know about this season’s “big bad.”
The young investigators in Stranger Things season 4 had the same question many viewers probably had about Vecna’s disfiguring murders: why would the demon frame Victor Creel for the death of his family in the ‘50s only to disappear until Chrissy’s murder in 1986? The answer lies with Dr. Martin Brenner and his secret government project...
The identity of Vecna is one of the most closely guarded secrets of Stranger Things season 4, but the big reveal in the midseason finale is less about the name behind the creature and more about the origin story of Eleven and the opening of the Upside Down, a central mystery of the show. Although many gaps will have to be filled in with speculation, let’s take a closer look at exactly what we know and don’t know about this season’s “big bad.”
The young investigators in Stranger Things season 4 had the same question many viewers probably had about Vecna’s disfiguring murders: why would the demon frame Victor Creel for the death of his family in the ‘50s only to disappear until Chrissy’s murder in 1986? The answer lies with Dr. Martin Brenner and his secret government project...
- 5/28/2022
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This article contains Stranger Things season 4 spoilers. We have a spoiler-free review here.
When we catch up with Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Erica in Stranger Things season 4 episode 1, it’s good to see that high school hasn’t dulled their enthusiasm for Dungeons & Dragons. But with Will now living across the country in California, they’ve had to find a new dungeon master, who they have in the charismatic, self-proclaimed “freak” Eddie Munson.
Munson is an ‘80s metalhead, one who revels in the “satanic panic” that surrounds both his chosen music and his favorite hobby. With a sardonic sense of humor, he’s named his D&d group “The Hellfire Club,” an obvious attempt to poke fun at the folks who think his musical taste, appearance, and fondness for D20s make him an agent of the devil. But the name “The Hellfire Club” also has broader historical and pop cultural significance…...
When we catch up with Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Erica in Stranger Things season 4 episode 1, it’s good to see that high school hasn’t dulled their enthusiasm for Dungeons & Dragons. But with Will now living across the country in California, they’ve had to find a new dungeon master, who they have in the charismatic, self-proclaimed “freak” Eddie Munson.
Munson is an ‘80s metalhead, one who revels in the “satanic panic” that surrounds both his chosen music and his favorite hobby. With a sardonic sense of humor, he’s named his D&d group “The Hellfire Club,” an obvious attempt to poke fun at the folks who think his musical taste, appearance, and fondness for D20s make him an agent of the devil. But the name “The Hellfire Club” also has broader historical and pop cultural significance…...
- 5/27/2022
- by Jim Dandy
- Den of Geek
This review is spoiler-free for Night Sky.
Several characters in Prime Video’s Night Sky awaken to the idea that something is missing in their lives, something to make them feel special. Even the elderly couple Franklin (Jk Simmons) and Irene (Sissy Spacek) who have kept secret a portal to another planet under their shed struggle to glean its purpose. The show, then, has the same thematic dilemma of finding its hook beyond the Lost-like puzzle box narrative: why should we care about the stranger who shows up in the couple’s lives (Chai Hansen) and what effect he has on them?
Most of the characters in Night Sky have a lot of inertia to overcome, and as a result, the first few episodes take awhile to gain momentum. A tragedy in Frank and Irene’s past has contributed to their reclusiveness and declining health through sheer inactivity. The couple...
Several characters in Prime Video’s Night Sky awaken to the idea that something is missing in their lives, something to make them feel special. Even the elderly couple Franklin (Jk Simmons) and Irene (Sissy Spacek) who have kept secret a portal to another planet under their shed struggle to glean its purpose. The show, then, has the same thematic dilemma of finding its hook beyond the Lost-like puzzle box narrative: why should we care about the stranger who shows up in the couple’s lives (Chai Hansen) and what effect he has on them?
Most of the characters in Night Sky have a lot of inertia to overcome, and as a result, the first few episodes take awhile to gain momentum. A tragedy in Frank and Irene’s past has contributed to their reclusiveness and declining health through sheer inactivity. The couple...
- 5/17/2022
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This articles contains spoilers for Raised by Wolves season 1.
It’s been over a year since the season one finale of Raised by Wolves aired on HBO Max, but even if the hiatus had been much shorter, the audience would likely need to be reminded about all the weirdness they witnessed during the opening run. Once season 2 kicks off on February 3, 2022, viewers will be anxious to find out what happens to all of the scattered characters who will likely have a lot of adjusting to do — almost as much reacclimation as the viewers themselves need.
Everyone probably remembers the basic premise of Raised by Wolves: two androids were sent to Kepler-22b to care for a new generation of humans raised from embryos. They escaped the dying Earth during a religious war between the atheists and the zealous Mithraics that destroyed the Earth. Mother, a reprogrammed “necromancer” war machine,...
It’s been over a year since the season one finale of Raised by Wolves aired on HBO Max, but even if the hiatus had been much shorter, the audience would likely need to be reminded about all the weirdness they witnessed during the opening run. Once season 2 kicks off on February 3, 2022, viewers will be anxious to find out what happens to all of the scattered characters who will likely have a lot of adjusting to do — almost as much reacclimation as the viewers themselves need.
Everyone probably remembers the basic premise of Raised by Wolves: two androids were sent to Kepler-22b to care for a new generation of humans raised from embryos. They escaped the dying Earth during a religious war between the atheists and the zealous Mithraics that destroyed the Earth. Mother, a reprogrammed “necromancer” war machine,...
- 1/30/2022
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This article contains The Expanse spoilers.
Many fans of The Expanse on Prime Video who haven’t already read the James S. A. Corey novels upon which the series is based probably have at least thought about checking out the books at some point. But the floodgates likely opened after the series finale aired for those looking to answer the questions left unresolved by the show’s untimely cancelation with books seven through nine still unadapted.
For those still on the fence, we’ll attempt to outline the plot of the remaining story without spoiling the big moments that should be experienced firsthand. The good news is that Persepolis Rising can be a starting point, skipping the first five books with only minor catching up to do. That’s not the recommended path, of course (read the whole thing!), but here’s what’s in store for anyone who takes that shortcut.
Many fans of The Expanse on Prime Video who haven’t already read the James S. A. Corey novels upon which the series is based probably have at least thought about checking out the books at some point. But the floodgates likely opened after the series finale aired for those looking to answer the questions left unresolved by the show’s untimely cancelation with books seven through nine still unadapted.
For those still on the fence, we’ll attempt to outline the plot of the remaining story without spoiling the big moments that should be experienced firsthand. The good news is that Persepolis Rising can be a starting point, skipping the first five books with only minor catching up to do. That’s not the recommended path, of course (read the whole thing!), but here’s what’s in store for anyone who takes that shortcut.
- 1/14/2022
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This review of The Expanse contains spoilers.
The Expanse Season 6 Episode 5
No matter how explosive the coming finale might be, The Expanse season 6 will best be known as the most well written set of episodes where not much happened. There is no argument that “Why We Fight” is thematically very rich and filled with amazing dialogue, but aside from satisfying our need to have Drummer front and center for the final battle, this penultimate episode doesn’t scratch many itches. We can see that everything is coming to a head, but the journey towards whatever next week has in store has not been nearly as dynamic as the precedent set by previous seasons.
That being said, there were plenty of tête-à-têtes to enjoy as we watched the pieces fall into place, and many of them related directly to the episode title, “Why We Fight.” Avasarala scraps with Bobbie about whether...
The Expanse Season 6 Episode 5
No matter how explosive the coming finale might be, The Expanse season 6 will best be known as the most well written set of episodes where not much happened. There is no argument that “Why We Fight” is thematically very rich and filled with amazing dialogue, but aside from satisfying our need to have Drummer front and center for the final battle, this penultimate episode doesn’t scratch many itches. We can see that everything is coming to a head, but the journey towards whatever next week has in store has not been nearly as dynamic as the precedent set by previous seasons.
That being said, there were plenty of tête-à-têtes to enjoy as we watched the pieces fall into place, and many of them related directly to the episode title, “Why We Fight.” Avasarala scraps with Bobbie about whether...
- 1/7/2022
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This article contains spoilers for The Wheel of Time.
Although the first season of The Wheel of Time departed in many ways from The Eye of the World, the Robert Jordan novel upon which it is based, the elements it included and left out give us some clues as to where the series might be headed in its already renewed second season. Despite proving that its willing to change the plot quite drastically, spoiler-free guesses can be made about what might show up from the books given the way showrunner Rafe Judkins and his writers have made their decisions so far.
A Love Interest for Rand
The Wheel of Time made slightly more out of the romantic feelings between Rand and Egwene in season one than what appeared in the books, and that’s okay. The dramatic tension provided a way in the finale to illustrate Rand’s ability to...
Although the first season of The Wheel of Time departed in many ways from The Eye of the World, the Robert Jordan novel upon which it is based, the elements it included and left out give us some clues as to where the series might be headed in its already renewed second season. Despite proving that its willing to change the plot quite drastically, spoiler-free guesses can be made about what might show up from the books given the way showrunner Rafe Judkins and his writers have made their decisions so far.
A Love Interest for Rand
The Wheel of Time made slightly more out of the romantic feelings between Rand and Egwene in season one than what appeared in the books, and that’s okay. The dramatic tension provided a way in the finale to illustrate Rand’s ability to...
- 1/6/2022
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Whether viewers of The Expanse season 6 enjoy Marco Inaros as a villain or not, one thing’s for sure: everyone’s rooting for his downfall. The ironic thing is he could almost defeat himself through sheer pigheadedness if not for the fearless advice of a rising star in the Free Navy, a character by the name of Rosenfeld Guoliang, played by Kathleen Robertson. We asked creators Ty Franck and Daniel Abraham as well as showrunner Naren Shankar about the new dynamic Rosenfeld creates in the show.
Although Rosenfeld is a male character in the James S. A. Corey novels upon which The Expanse is based, both he and the television version act as a voice of reason within Marco’s inner circle. “She’s an established character [from the books], one of the Free Navy,” says Franck. “But more than anything we needed somebody for Marco to have conversations with and to be plotting and strategizing with,...
Although Rosenfeld is a male character in the James S. A. Corey novels upon which The Expanse is based, both he and the television version act as a voice of reason within Marco’s inner circle. “She’s an established character [from the books], one of the Free Navy,” says Franck. “But more than anything we needed somebody for Marco to have conversations with and to be plotting and strategizing with,...
- 1/1/2022
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This review of The Expanse contains spoilers.
The Expanse Season 6 Episode 4
It’s official: The Expanse is clearly treating its final season as though the story were continuing, leaving it up to the viewers to decide where everyone will end up. The emotional beats in “Redoubt” were wonderful and would have been right at home in a ten to thirteen episode season with hopes of renewal. It’s difficult to know how to feel about a story that’s delivering spot-on dialogue, flawless character development, and even a bit of action while simultaneously realizing that its audience will have to be satisfied with comeuppance for Marco Inaros and little else as a series resolution.
How else can The Expanse explain spending six minutes on Laconia introducing Admiral Duarte, who would have been the central adversary in hypothetical future seasons? As expected, it looks like the young girl in this side...
The Expanse Season 6 Episode 4
It’s official: The Expanse is clearly treating its final season as though the story were continuing, leaving it up to the viewers to decide where everyone will end up. The emotional beats in “Redoubt” were wonderful and would have been right at home in a ten to thirteen episode season with hopes of renewal. It’s difficult to know how to feel about a story that’s delivering spot-on dialogue, flawless character development, and even a bit of action while simultaneously realizing that its audience will have to be satisfied with comeuppance for Marco Inaros and little else as a series resolution.
How else can The Expanse explain spending six minutes on Laconia introducing Admiral Duarte, who would have been the central adversary in hypothetical future seasons? As expected, it looks like the young girl in this side...
- 12/31/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This review contains spoilers for The Expanse.
The Expanse Season 6 Episode 3
Like last week, the latest episode of The Expanse benefited from an exciting battle in space, but unlike the previous installment, which had plenty of emotional punch, “Force Projection” seemed unable to focus intently enough on any one subplot to keep viewer interest. Aside from some welcome cameos from Amos’ past buddies, Pastor Anna (Elizabeth Mitchell) and Prax (Terry Chen), this episode was mostly notable for reinforcing our image of Marco Inaros as an incompetent asshat.
Even Marco’s strategy of abandoning Ceres, while brilliant in terms of its negative public relations for the Un (both among their own constituents and the Belter population), lacks any sort of narrative impact. Granted, this political twist is straight from the pages of the sixth The Expanse novel, Babylon’s Ashes, but seeing the stripped equipment and the food lines was visually not very dynamic.
The Expanse Season 6 Episode 3
Like last week, the latest episode of The Expanse benefited from an exciting battle in space, but unlike the previous installment, which had plenty of emotional punch, “Force Projection” seemed unable to focus intently enough on any one subplot to keep viewer interest. Aside from some welcome cameos from Amos’ past buddies, Pastor Anna (Elizabeth Mitchell) and Prax (Terry Chen), this episode was mostly notable for reinforcing our image of Marco Inaros as an incompetent asshat.
Even Marco’s strategy of abandoning Ceres, while brilliant in terms of its negative public relations for the Un (both among their own constituents and the Belter population), lacks any sort of narrative impact. Granted, this political twist is straight from the pages of the sixth The Expanse novel, Babylon’s Ashes, but seeing the stripped equipment and the food lines was visually not very dynamic.
- 12/24/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This article contains major spoilers for The Witcher season 2.
Far from resolving its many conflicts, The Witcher season 2 finale merely focused more intensely on the mystery of Ciri’s power and brought powers together to either find her or protect her. Instead of a traditional victorious ending, the final moments saw the banishment of a troublesome demon and the hardened resolve of the fractured family that surrounds the former princess of Cintra. Plus, of course, there were several surprising reveals that raised more questions than they answered.
For example, we never did find out who was behind Rience the fire mage’s attempts to find and capture Ciri. Initially, his release from prison added another player to the game besides Nilfgaard and gave us some cool fight scenes. But now that there are many invested parties including the elves, the Brotherhood, Redania, and others, the continuing mystery of the benefactor...
Far from resolving its many conflicts, The Witcher season 2 finale merely focused more intensely on the mystery of Ciri’s power and brought powers together to either find her or protect her. Instead of a traditional victorious ending, the final moments saw the banishment of a troublesome demon and the hardened resolve of the fractured family that surrounds the former princess of Cintra. Plus, of course, there were several surprising reveals that raised more questions than they answered.
For example, we never did find out who was behind Rience the fire mage’s attempts to find and capture Ciri. Initially, his release from prison added another player to the game besides Nilfgaard and gave us some cool fight scenes. But now that there are many invested parties including the elves, the Brotherhood, Redania, and others, the continuing mystery of the benefactor...
- 12/18/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This article contains The Expanse spoilers.
In the latest episode of The Expanse, Bobbie Draper reminds the Rocinante crew that they’re harboring a convicted felon, Clarissa Mao, and it’s easy for the audience to forget that she was in a maximum security prison on Earth for blowing up a ship full of innocent people in season 3. The forgiveness she earned from Amos in the intervening seasons has now been extended by Holden in this week’s most touching scene, and saving Bobbie’s life was a big part of her redemption arc.
Co-creator of The Expanse Ty Franck enjoys exploring the new dynamics that Clarissa, played wonderfully by Nadine Nicole, brings to the show. “More than anything it’s nice to see Amos have a friend… and Amos really likes [Clarissa]; they’re obviously growing much closer as friends, and that’s all nice,” he says. “But the other...
In the latest episode of The Expanse, Bobbie Draper reminds the Rocinante crew that they’re harboring a convicted felon, Clarissa Mao, and it’s easy for the audience to forget that she was in a maximum security prison on Earth for blowing up a ship full of innocent people in season 3. The forgiveness she earned from Amos in the intervening seasons has now been extended by Holden in this week’s most touching scene, and saving Bobbie’s life was a big part of her redemption arc.
Co-creator of The Expanse Ty Franck enjoys exploring the new dynamics that Clarissa, played wonderfully by Nadine Nicole, brings to the show. “More than anything it’s nice to see Amos have a friend… and Amos really likes [Clarissa]; they’re obviously growing much closer as friends, and that’s all nice,” he says. “But the other...
- 12/18/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This review contains spoilers for The Expanse.
What a difference a week makes! If Prime Video had released the final season of The Expanse all at once, viewers would have seen the premiere as nothing more than the preamble to episode 2, but on its own “Azure Dragon” stands out as an action-packed but also emotionally powerful installment that deserves its own week of appreciation. Although it’s still easy to wonder how the story can possibly wrap up in four more episodes, things are definitely on a good track.
Even small moments like Naomi freezing up during the mission to capture the Azure Dragon had its own almost completely unspoken impact. Even for a Belter born making ship-to-ship jumps like this one, Naomi is clearly feeling the trauma of her suitless escape through the void in The Expanse season 5. There was something very sweet about her exchange with Holden saying she was okay,...
What a difference a week makes! If Prime Video had released the final season of The Expanse all at once, viewers would have seen the premiere as nothing more than the preamble to episode 2, but on its own “Azure Dragon” stands out as an action-packed but also emotionally powerful installment that deserves its own week of appreciation. Although it’s still easy to wonder how the story can possibly wrap up in four more episodes, things are definitely on a good track.
Even small moments like Naomi freezing up during the mission to capture the Azure Dragon had its own almost completely unspoken impact. Even for a Belter born making ship-to-ship jumps like this one, Naomi is clearly feeling the trauma of her suitless escape through the void in The Expanse season 5. There was something very sweet about her exchange with Holden saying she was okay,...
- 12/17/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Although The Expanse rearranged the order of some character introductions over the years, each season for the most part followed the conflict of each successive book in the James S. A. Corey series. Season one followed Leviathan Wakes, season two followed Caliban’s War, and so on. But with the ninth and final novel recently released, how can the show possibly wrap up the story in a way that will satisfy fans and resolve the issues brought about by the introduction of alien technology into the solar system?
The short answer is: it doesn’t need to. Ty Franck, one half of the writing duo that wrote the novels and also writes for the show, told us in a recent interview, “We’re not doing the last three books in six episodes. There’s a natural stopping point after book six, or at least a natural pause point. So it...
The short answer is: it doesn’t need to. Ty Franck, one half of the writing duo that wrote the novels and also writes for the show, told us in a recent interview, “We’re not doing the last three books in six episodes. There’s a natural stopping point after book six, or at least a natural pause point. So it...
- 12/11/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This review of The Expanse contains spoilers.
The Expanse Season 6 Episode 1
Fans of The Expanse don’t want their show to end, and although they only had to wait eight months between seasons 5 and 6, everyone wants each of these last six episodes to be as full and satisfying as possible. In that sense, “Strange Dogs” was both triumphant in signaling the show’s return and disappointing in merely setting up the action to come. Although the premiere was a necessary introduction to the continuing story, a desire for more created a paradoxical urge to get to the next episode while simultaneously not wanting to rush the little story we have left to enjoy.
That’s not to say there wasn’t plenty to enjoy about the return of The Expanse. First of all, it was nice to see our core crew together and back aboard the Rocinante, even though the...
The Expanse Season 6 Episode 1
Fans of The Expanse don’t want their show to end, and although they only had to wait eight months between seasons 5 and 6, everyone wants each of these last six episodes to be as full and satisfying as possible. In that sense, “Strange Dogs” was both triumphant in signaling the show’s return and disappointing in merely setting up the action to come. Although the premiere was a necessary introduction to the continuing story, a desire for more created a paradoxical urge to get to the next episode while simultaneously not wanting to rush the little story we have left to enjoy.
That’s not to say there wasn’t plenty to enjoy about the return of The Expanse. First of all, it was nice to see our core crew together and back aboard the Rocinante, even though the...
- 12/10/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This article contains The Wheel of Time spoilers.
The Wheel of Time has plenty to enjoy for those who haven’t read the Robert Jordan novels upon which the show is based, but there has been no shortage of frustration on the part of “book purists” who are dissatisfied with some of the changes made by the television adaptation. Complaints of women being among the Dragon Reborn candidates, for example, may have primed more defensive viewers to question the latest narrative revision: the portrayal of Moiraine and Siuan as lovers.
But before the claims of “woke nonsense” come rolling in, hold on a moment. Although the late Robert Jordan never spelled out a romantic connection between the Amyrlin Seat and the esteemed Aes Sedai of the Blue Ajah, there were plenty of references to the pair being “pillow friends” as novices and beyond. While Jordan’s portrayal may have been...
The Wheel of Time has plenty to enjoy for those who haven’t read the Robert Jordan novels upon which the show is based, but there has been no shortage of frustration on the part of “book purists” who are dissatisfied with some of the changes made by the television adaptation. Complaints of women being among the Dragon Reborn candidates, for example, may have primed more defensive viewers to question the latest narrative revision: the portrayal of Moiraine and Siuan as lovers.
But before the claims of “woke nonsense” come rolling in, hold on a moment. Although the late Robert Jordan never spelled out a romantic connection between the Amyrlin Seat and the esteemed Aes Sedai of the Blue Ajah, there were plenty of references to the pair being “pillow friends” as novices and beyond. While Jordan’s portrayal may have been...
- 12/10/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Given the fact that Netflix fantasy series The Witcher is based, at least in part, on a series of video games about a magical monster hunter, you’d be forgiven for almost immediately assuming that the presence of women in this story is likely to be minimal at best. (Or that those who do appear would be both simply drawn and scantily clad.) But the franchise–from streaming series and video games to the Andrzej Sapkowski novels and short stories upon which it is all based–is actually surprisingly feminist, granting its female characters the sort of agency and interiority that is not always guaranteed in genre fiction generally, or fantasy television specifically.
A less nuanced television series might take The Witcher’s vaguely medieval, fairly patriarchal setting as carte blanche to include all sorts of casual misogyny: Damsels in distress, sassy sex workers, or the sort of pointless, objectifying...
A less nuanced television series might take The Witcher’s vaguely medieval, fairly patriarchal setting as carte blanche to include all sorts of casual misogyny: Damsels in distress, sassy sex workers, or the sort of pointless, objectifying...
- 12/8/2021
- by Lacy Baugher
- Den of Geek
This article contains spoilers for the ending of Netflix’s Lost in Space.
After three thrilling seasons, everybody finally made it to Alpha Centauri! But, as Lost in Space season 3 reveals, just because you make it home, doesn’t mean everything is okay. The final moments of Lost in Space season 3 resolved several plot points at once, and up-ended a lot of assumptions you might have had about the alien robots up until this point.
Here’s exactly how Lost in Space season 3 ended, and what it means.
Hastings has the key to the defensive shield Read more TV Lost in Space Season 2 Ending Explained By Michael Ahr
When the Robinsons finally arrive at Alpha Centauri, they know Sar and the hostile alien robots are hot on their tail. What they need is an Emp shield to knock out the attacking robots’ ships. But, in order to do that, they...
After three thrilling seasons, everybody finally made it to Alpha Centauri! But, as Lost in Space season 3 reveals, just because you make it home, doesn’t mean everything is okay. The final moments of Lost in Space season 3 resolved several plot points at once, and up-ended a lot of assumptions you might have had about the alien robots up until this point.
Here’s exactly how Lost in Space season 3 ended, and what it means.
Hastings has the key to the defensive shield Read more TV Lost in Space Season 2 Ending Explained By Michael Ahr
When the Robinsons finally arrive at Alpha Centauri, they know Sar and the hostile alien robots are hot on their tail. What they need is an Emp shield to knock out the attacking robots’ ships. But, in order to do that, they...
- 12/2/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
The year is somehow already almost over! To celebrate another passage around the sun, Netflix is putting its best foot forward with its list of new releases for December 2021.
Netflix’s options of original series are quite vast and impressive this month. It starts early on with two finales: Lost in Space wraps up its story with a third and final season on Dec. 1 and is quickly followed by the last go-around for Spanish hit Money Heist. The blockbusters continue apace from there with The Witcher season 2 premiering on Dec. 17, Emily in Paris season 2 on Dec. 22, and Cobra Kai season 4 on Dec. 31 to close out the year.
Read more TV The Witcher Season 2 First Look Asks What Kind of Father Geralt Will Be By Michael Ahr TV How Will Money Heist End? By Gene Ching
It’s also a good month for movies on Netflix. Adam McKay’s satirical climate...
Netflix’s options of original series are quite vast and impressive this month. It starts early on with two finales: Lost in Space wraps up its story with a third and final season on Dec. 1 and is quickly followed by the last go-around for Spanish hit Money Heist. The blockbusters continue apace from there with The Witcher season 2 premiering on Dec. 17, Emily in Paris season 2 on Dec. 22, and Cobra Kai season 4 on Dec. 31 to close out the year.
Read more TV The Witcher Season 2 First Look Asks What Kind of Father Geralt Will Be By Michael Ahr TV How Will Money Heist End? By Gene Ching
It’s also a good month for movies on Netflix. Adam McKay’s satirical climate...
- 12/1/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
The holiday season is almost here and Amazon Prime is getting in the mood with its list of December 2021 releases. Sure there are the usual Christmas movies to be found but the real gift this month are two big original titles.
The sixth and final season of beloved sci-fi series The Expanse premieres on Dec. 10. Amazon is doing its usual release strategy of three episodes on the premiere day followed by a weekly schedule so there’s still some time to be spent with the crew of the Rocinante. The other big ticket item is the Desi and Lucy biopic Being the Ricardos on Dec. 21. Sure, Aaron Sorkin seems to be completely disinterested in I Love Lucy and Nicole Kidman bears no passing resemblance to the iconic comedienne whatsoever but uh…it’s a movie!
Read more TV The Expanse Season 5 Ending Explained By Michael Ahr Books How Science Fiction...
The sixth and final season of beloved sci-fi series The Expanse premieres on Dec. 10. Amazon is doing its usual release strategy of three episodes on the premiere day followed by a weekly schedule so there’s still some time to be spent with the crew of the Rocinante. The other big ticket item is the Desi and Lucy biopic Being the Ricardos on Dec. 21. Sure, Aaron Sorkin seems to be completely disinterested in I Love Lucy and Nicole Kidman bears no passing resemblance to the iconic comedienne whatsoever but uh…it’s a movie!
Read more TV The Expanse Season 5 Ending Explained By Michael Ahr Books How Science Fiction...
- 12/1/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Netflix’s The Witcher is one of the streamer’s most popular offerings, an epic fantasy teeming with magic, monsters, and complex characters with weighty, potentially world-saving destinies shared between them. Its first season featured thrilling fight sequences, a banger of a folk ballad about our titular monster-slaying hero, and a non-linear timeline that is occasionally as frustrating as it is fun to unravel. And though things will reportedly become a bit more chronological in the show’s second season, the interconnected stakes have never been higher for our favorite characters.
Emotional richness sets The Witcher apart from many of the other big-name fantasy properties that have come to our screens. At first glance, The Witcher seems like exactly the sort of show that gives fantasy a reputation for being exclusionary in its genre conventions: a pseudo-medieval setting full of dark creatures, hulking warriors, big swords, and a pretty blonde girl in distress.
Emotional richness sets The Witcher apart from many of the other big-name fantasy properties that have come to our screens. At first glance, The Witcher seems like exactly the sort of show that gives fantasy a reputation for being exclusionary in its genre conventions: a pseudo-medieval setting full of dark creatures, hulking warriors, big swords, and a pretty blonde girl in distress.
- 12/1/2021
- by Rosie Fletcher
- Den of Geek
This article contains spoilers for the first three episodes of The Wheel of Time.
Amazon’s new The Wheel of Time series is heavy on internal world-building, mythology, and lore – a natural result of the massive source material upon which it is based. But the sheer scope can feel daunting for new viewers who are unfamiliar with the intricacies of Robert Jordan’s sprawling fantasy world.
From multiple protagonists, a dozen unique cultures, and a complex philosophical underpinning that involves repeating patterns spread throughout time, there’s a lot to unpack in this universe. But The Wheel of Time showrunner Rafe Judkins clearly doesn’t mind the challenge of introducing new viewers to the rich world that he himself already loved.
“I tried to make sure that we were staying true to the things in the books that ultimately bring people in,” Judkins says. “Like when you first pick up that book,...
Amazon’s new The Wheel of Time series is heavy on internal world-building, mythology, and lore – a natural result of the massive source material upon which it is based. But the sheer scope can feel daunting for new viewers who are unfamiliar with the intricacies of Robert Jordan’s sprawling fantasy world.
From multiple protagonists, a dozen unique cultures, and a complex philosophical underpinning that involves repeating patterns spread throughout time, there’s a lot to unpack in this universe. But The Wheel of Time showrunner Rafe Judkins clearly doesn’t mind the challenge of introducing new viewers to the rich world that he himself already loved.
“I tried to make sure that we were staying true to the things in the books that ultimately bring people in,” Judkins says. “Like when you first pick up that book,...
- 11/20/2021
- by Lacy Baugher
- Den of Geek
With the coveted role of James Bond now vacant, there’s obviously no shortage of prominent actors attempting to generate enough public interest for consideration. Indeed, the latest such instance highlights the enduring desirability of the gig, since it comes from the highest-paid actor in the film industry, Dwayne Johnson. While the mere thought of the muscle-bound, bald 6’ 5” former American wrestling phenomenon as a suave, seductive, martini-sipping British agent with a license to kill might be hard for fans to fathom for several reasons, the role would actually fulfill a family legacy for Johnson directly related to the Bond franchise’s past.
Johnson is likely focused on the idea of playing a hard-hitting government agent, seeing as he’s promoting his role as F.B.I. special agent John Hartley in recently-dropped Netflix action-comedy Red Notice, in which he co-stars with Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot. After all, the character...
Johnson is likely focused on the idea of playing a hard-hitting government agent, seeing as he’s promoting his role as F.B.I. special agent John Hartley in recently-dropped Netflix action-comedy Red Notice, in which he co-stars with Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot. After all, the character...
- 11/16/2021
- by Joseph Baxter
- Den of Geek
With The Expanse season 6 being the series’ final run, there isn’t much time to resolve the solar system’s woes, but the journey to whatever resolution the show gives us will be about what the characters everyone loves do with their remaining time on screen. The latest trailer for the series, which begins its final season on December 10th, gives a few hints about what relationships, both supportive and confrontational, will take center stage in the story to come.
Some established connections, such as the intimacy between Holden and Naomi, are seen to have been reforged since the circumstances that separated them in The Expanse season 5, but one powerful image that highlights a new bond appears when Amos smiles at his rescued former enemy, Clarissa “Peaches” Mao. Later in the trailer, Naomi is shown hesitantly smiling at her new crewmate, whom it’s likely she will have a difficult...
Some established connections, such as the intimacy between Holden and Naomi, are seen to have been reforged since the circumstances that separated them in The Expanse season 5, but one powerful image that highlights a new bond appears when Amos smiles at his rescued former enemy, Clarissa “Peaches” Mao. Later in the trailer, Naomi is shown hesitantly smiling at her new crewmate, whom it’s likely she will have a difficult...
- 11/16/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Amazon Prime Video’s epic The Lord of the Rings series won’t arrive until 2022. Thankfully, with its list of new releases for November 2021, Amazon has a pretty major fantasy adaptation to hold us over.
The Wheel of Time is set to premiere on Nov. 19 and will bring Robert Jordan’s massive fantasy universe to life. Rosamund Pike stars as Moiraine, a powerful magic-user who guides five young people on a perilous journey around the world. One of them just might be the reincarnation of the Dragon, a powerful entity who could save the world…or destroy it.
Read more TV The Wheel of Time: Who Are the Aes Sedai? By Michael Ahr TV How The Wheel of Time Adapts a Sprawling Epic Fantasy By Michael Ahr
In addition to that bit of fantasy fun, Amazon Prime also has some other TV options this month. Lesbian dating show Tampa Baes (Nov.
The Wheel of Time is set to premiere on Nov. 19 and will bring Robert Jordan’s massive fantasy universe to life. Rosamund Pike stars as Moiraine, a powerful magic-user who guides five young people on a perilous journey around the world. One of them just might be the reincarnation of the Dragon, a powerful entity who could save the world…or destroy it.
Read more TV The Wheel of Time: Who Are the Aes Sedai? By Michael Ahr TV How The Wheel of Time Adapts a Sprawling Epic Fantasy By Michael Ahr
In addition to that bit of fantasy fun, Amazon Prime also has some other TV options this month. Lesbian dating show Tampa Baes (Nov.
- 11/1/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
There are no dragons in The Wheel of Time. In fact, most characters in the Robert Jordan novels wouldn’t even be able to tell you what a dragon is. But assuming the mythical creatures went extinct millennia ago provides a sense of the scale for the cyclical history that gives the series its name, and one of the most notable historical figures from the long gone Age of Legends is an ancient hero who named himself the Dragon. The latest trailer finds Rosamund Pike’s Moiraine seeking his reincarnation, the Dragon Reborn.
As an Aes Sedai scholar and channeler, Moiraine begins the series uniquely equipped to track down potential candidates before they even know the importance of their own existence. To the villagers in Two Rivers, the Dragon was a powerful channeler who was among those who accidentally released the nameless evil known as the Dark One into the world.
As an Aes Sedai scholar and channeler, Moiraine begins the series uniquely equipped to track down potential candidates before they even know the importance of their own existence. To the villagers in Two Rivers, the Dragon was a powerful channeler who was among those who accidentally released the nameless evil known as the Dark One into the world.
- 10/25/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
The Wheel of Time is difficult to define, but in simplified terms the story follows a cycle of history that repeats: one in which a hero called the Dragon is reborn into each turn of the wheel to defeat the Shadow. But the light the Dragon Reborn brings is earned through much hardship, and the only guiding force through this peace by the sword are the Aes Sedai, the women who harness elemental forces and use their magic to influence the pattern of the prophecy as it unfolds.
So while The Wheel of Time is not exactly about the Aes Sedai, the hero’s journey would be impossible without them. “In our world, they function very much like the Catholic Church might have in medieval Europe,” showrunner Rafe Judkins says. “They are not the presidents of countries or the queens of countries, but they are the people who sit at...
So while The Wheel of Time is not exactly about the Aes Sedai, the hero’s journey would be impossible without them. “In our world, they function very much like the Catholic Church might have in medieval Europe,” showrunner Rafe Judkins says. “They are not the presidents of countries or the queens of countries, but they are the people who sit at...
- 9/28/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time series would seem to defy adaptation with its massive cast of characters, centuries of history, and sprawling world map. The danger of alienating longtime fans of the books with inaccuracies or confusing newcomers with too many details is very real. However, showrunner Rafe Judkins was up to the challenge, deciding which aspects of the novels made the story original and bringing those key aspects to television. “I think it’s our job to both be true to the Wheel of Time books but also be mindful of… the things that could feel repetitive [and those] that are fresh and unique,” he says.
The Wheel of Time doesn’t rely on a single protagonist, for example, but instead introduces three unwitting young heroes in a familiar fantasy journey, escaping those who would prevent them from fulfilling important destinies they know nothing about. Josha Stradowski is the...
The Wheel of Time doesn’t rely on a single protagonist, for example, but instead introduces three unwitting young heroes in a familiar fantasy journey, escaping those who would prevent them from fulfilling important destinies they know nothing about. Josha Stradowski is the...
- 9/14/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
”The power inside you: all over the world there are different names for it. But it’s one thing, One Power, and women who can touch it — we protect the world.” So says Rosamund Pike’s character, Moiraine Damodred, in the first Wheel of Time trailer released by Amazon. Even for those who have never read the Robert Jordan novels upon which the series is based, it’s clear that the powerful women featured in this preview are the ones to be reckoned with.
So why is someone called “the Dark One” pursuing a small group of friends who look much less imposing than the robed women that appear prominently throughout the trailer? Book readers may recognize young Rand Al’Thor (Josha Stradowski), Mat Cauthon (Barney Harris), and Perrin Aybara (Marcus Rutherford) looking relatively carefree in the clips in which they appear, but there’s little doubt that their simple...
So why is someone called “the Dark One” pursuing a small group of friends who look much less imposing than the robed women that appear prominently throughout the trailer? Book readers may recognize young Rand Al’Thor (Josha Stradowski), Mat Cauthon (Barney Harris), and Perrin Aybara (Marcus Rutherford) looking relatively carefree in the clips in which they appear, but there’s little doubt that their simple...
- 9/2/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Fans who wished for Manifest season 4 had reason to hope that Netflix would rescue their beloved show, but they might wonder why it took so long to finally make the announcement. After all, the show was in the streaming giant’s top 10 list ever since NBC announced its cancelation. But there may have been more to it than simply picking up the series outright or waiting for a Twitter campaign to prove that the audience was still out there.
Obviously, there was a certain amount of negotiation that had to happen behind the scenes between Warner Bros. Television, which produced Manifest for NBC, and Netflix, but the timing of the announcement wasn’t completely coincidental. The show centers on the passengers of Flight 828 who gain powers after their plane jumps forward in time five years, and the renewal was announced on August 28 — 8/28 — a number that was sure to resonate with fans.
Obviously, there was a certain amount of negotiation that had to happen behind the scenes between Warner Bros. Television, which produced Manifest for NBC, and Netflix, but the timing of the announcement wasn’t completely coincidental. The show centers on the passengers of Flight 828 who gain powers after their plane jumps forward in time five years, and the renewal was announced on August 28 — 8/28 — a number that was sure to resonate with fans.
- 8/29/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This article contains major spoilers for The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf
There are many good reasons why The Witcher doesn’t feature Geralt of Rivia beheading a vampire and then quipping, “Fangs for the memories.” His sense of humor is more cutting and direct, definitely not as snarky as when his mentor Vesemir fights the leshen in the opening scene of Netflix’s animated spinoff, The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf. That difference may partly be explained by the movie’s ending, which enlightened fans about a number of worldbuilding details that cross over into the main series.
The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf presents an interesting dilemma in its premise: if the profession were more common, then there would be more competition for monsters to kill in order to earn a living. In the present time of the movie, Vesemir has made a lucrative haul before heading to Kaer Morhen,...
There are many good reasons why The Witcher doesn’t feature Geralt of Rivia beheading a vampire and then quipping, “Fangs for the memories.” His sense of humor is more cutting and direct, definitely not as snarky as when his mentor Vesemir fights the leshen in the opening scene of Netflix’s animated spinoff, The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf. That difference may partly be explained by the movie’s ending, which enlightened fans about a number of worldbuilding details that cross over into the main series.
The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf presents an interesting dilemma in its premise: if the profession were more common, then there would be more competition for monsters to kill in order to earn a living. In the present time of the movie, Vesemir has made a lucrative haul before heading to Kaer Morhen,...
- 8/23/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Although it’s common for any show to shift its characters into new arcs from year to year, The Witcher season 2 is about to completely alter the lives portrayed on screen for a couple of its most important characters. Showrunner Lauren Schmidt Hissrich spoke to reporters along with Anya Chalotra and Freya Allan, who play Yennefer and Ciri, about how massively different the two women will be in the coming chapter, especially when compared to the seemingly unchangeable titular character, Geralt of Rivia.
Viewers could be forgiven, in fact, for thinking the powerful sorceress Yennefer had died at the end of The Witcher season 1 when she sacrificed everything to defeat the Nilfgaardian army. “After her victory at the Battle of Sodden, she’s captured,” Chalotra reveals. “Her whereabouts are unknown and she has to survive being a prisoner of war… She goes back to Aretuza and she has to navigate...
Viewers could be forgiven, in fact, for thinking the powerful sorceress Yennefer had died at the end of The Witcher season 1 when she sacrificed everything to defeat the Nilfgaardian army. “After her victory at the Battle of Sodden, she’s captured,” Chalotra reveals. “Her whereabouts are unknown and she has to survive being a prisoner of war… She goes back to Aretuza and she has to navigate...
- 8/20/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Like other explorations into the world of The Witcher, the upcoming spin-off prequel The Witcher: Blood Origin both expands upon and provides context for the main series. With Netflix announcing the limited series’ cast, most of whom are playing elven characters, a few questions arise. How are the elves involved in the creation of the witcher race, and why is the so-called “conjunction of the spheres” at the center of not only this origin story but also the beginning of the fall of the elves?
UK fans may recognize a few faces among the cast, including comedian and children’s television cult star Lenny Henry who will play Balor, Dylan Moran (Black Books) who will play the humorously named Uthrok One-Nut, and Huw Novelli (The Capture), playing Callan “Brother Death.” But there are also several stage actors such as Zach Wyatt who will play the role of Syndril and Amy Murray who will portray Fenrik,...
UK fans may recognize a few faces among the cast, including comedian and children’s television cult star Lenny Henry who will play Balor, Dylan Moran (Black Books) who will play the humorously named Uthrok One-Nut, and Huw Novelli (The Capture), playing Callan “Brother Death.” But there are also several stage actors such as Zach Wyatt who will play the role of Syndril and Amy Murray who will portray Fenrik,...
- 8/16/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
They say there’s nothing new under the sun and that Hollywood is bereft of fresh ideas. But sometimes truly innovative films are unfairly accused of being derivative just because they put a new twist on an age old concept. Such is the case with Christopher Nolan’s 2010 film Inception, which is receiving fresh scrutiny now that it’s streaming on Netflix for longtime fans as well as those who missed it in theaters the first time around.
Sometimes the chronology of inspiration doesn’t quite line up as neatly as skeptics would like to think. Even though Inception was released in 2010, Nolan had presented a treatment to Warner Bros. about “dream stealers” in 2002 before shelving it to work on other projects. With that in mind, could the following properties have inspired the Academy Award winning film as some have theorized, and if not, how else could the similarities be explained?...
Sometimes the chronology of inspiration doesn’t quite line up as neatly as skeptics would like to think. Even though Inception was released in 2010, Nolan had presented a treatment to Warner Bros. about “dream stealers” in 2002 before shelving it to work on other projects. With that in mind, could the following properties have inspired the Academy Award winning film as some have theorized, and if not, how else could the similarities be explained?...
- 8/13/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
We’re deep into the dog days of summer, but Netflix’s list of new releases for August 2021 feels like fall.
That is to say that Netflix has some really good library TV titles this month that harken back to the glory days of the fall TV network calendar. August 1 sees the arrival of two of the best NBC shows of all time: Tina Fey comedy 30 Rock, and life-affirming (American) football drama Friday Night Lights. If you’ve not seen either, catch up with them both. That’s an order.
Read more TV 30 Rock’s Best Running Jokes By Louisa Mellor TV The Witcher Season 2 Trailer Showcases Ciri’s Training By Michael Ahr
As for original offerings, Netflix has plenty of those this month as well. Intriguing TV series such as Top Secret UFO Projects: Declassified (Aug. 3), Brand New Cherry Flavor (Aug. 13), The Chair (Aug. 20), and Clickbait (Aug.
That is to say that Netflix has some really good library TV titles this month that harken back to the glory days of the fall TV network calendar. August 1 sees the arrival of two of the best NBC shows of all time: Tina Fey comedy 30 Rock, and life-affirming (American) football drama Friday Night Lights. If you’ve not seen either, catch up with them both. That’s an order.
Read more TV 30 Rock’s Best Running Jokes By Louisa Mellor TV The Witcher Season 2 Trailer Showcases Ciri’s Training By Michael Ahr
As for original offerings, Netflix has plenty of those this month as well. Intriguing TV series such as Top Secret UFO Projects: Declassified (Aug. 3), Brand New Cherry Flavor (Aug. 13), The Chair (Aug. 20), and Clickbait (Aug.
- 8/1/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Amazon recently announced that Good Omens season 2 would be returning for a six-episode run, and those who read the single novel written by Neil Gaiman and Sir Terry Pratchett uttered a collective, “Huh?” The show was logically conceived as a limited series given that what is now season 1 already adapted the entire existing story. However, it turns out that Gaiman, as executive producer, left himself some openings to continue the tale, the seeds of which do exist.
It turns out that Gaiman and the late Pratchett had discussed a possible sequel to their popular collaborative novel, and some elements from that effort, which would have been titled 668: The Neighbor of the Beast, have already been introduced. “The fact that we have Jon Hamm as the impossibly irritating angel Gabriel is something from the sequel we slid back in, [including] the relationship between heaven and hell, where we keep going back...
It turns out that Gaiman and the late Pratchett had discussed a possible sequel to their popular collaborative novel, and some elements from that effort, which would have been titled 668: The Neighbor of the Beast, have already been introduced. “The fact that we have Jon Hamm as the impossibly irritating angel Gabriel is something from the sequel we slid back in, [including] the relationship between heaven and hell, where we keep going back...
- 6/29/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This Manifest article contains spoilers.
Manifest is no stranger to unanswered questions. In fact, some might say its main appeal (or its greatest flaw) was the never-ending mystery of why the passengers of Flight 828 experienced prophetic callings after jumping forward five years mid-flight. After three seasons, it seemed viewers might never know the true meaning behind it all, and now with NBC’s cancellation of the sci-fi drama (and Netflix’s refusal to pick it up), it’s an unfortunate certainty that fans will be left in the dark forever.
The Manifest season 3 finale introduced three different attitudes that viewers might have about the news that there would be no season 4. The hardcore fans would probably agree with what Grace told Ben when he despaired in their search for Cal: “Just because we don’t have the answer, it doesn’t mean we stop believing that one exists.” Speculation obviously...
Manifest is no stranger to unanswered questions. In fact, some might say its main appeal (or its greatest flaw) was the never-ending mystery of why the passengers of Flight 828 experienced prophetic callings after jumping forward five years mid-flight. After three seasons, it seemed viewers might never know the true meaning behind it all, and now with NBC’s cancellation of the sci-fi drama (and Netflix’s refusal to pick it up), it’s an unfortunate certainty that fans will be left in the dark forever.
The Manifest season 3 finale introduced three different attitudes that viewers might have about the news that there would be no season 4. The hardcore fans would probably agree with what Grace told Ben when he despaired in their search for Cal: “Just because we don’t have the answer, it doesn’t mean we stop believing that one exists.” Speculation obviously...
- 6/25/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This Manifest review contains spoilers.
Manifest Season 3 Episodes 7 and 8
“Destination Unknown” is an apt title for the latest episode of Manifest because where in the hell are we headed with all this? As nice as it is to have major developments in the investigation into the callings and their origin and purpose, the introduction of sapphire residue may have been a bridge too far. It’s difficult to say with sci-fi dramas how much made-up stuff is too much; for example, the lifeboat idea was a great twist that raised the stakes considerably. But sapphire dust as an indication of a divine touch? Not so much.
At least with the piece of Noah’s Ark, there’s some feeling of consistency with the ancient Egyptian art from Al-Zuras, the many earlier angel-related callings, and the mythological importance of the peacock to the Greek pantheon. There’s a certain Indiana Jones or...
Manifest Season 3 Episodes 7 and 8
“Destination Unknown” is an apt title for the latest episode of Manifest because where in the hell are we headed with all this? As nice as it is to have major developments in the investigation into the callings and their origin and purpose, the introduction of sapphire residue may have been a bridge too far. It’s difficult to say with sci-fi dramas how much made-up stuff is too much; for example, the lifeboat idea was a great twist that raised the stakes considerably. But sapphire dust as an indication of a divine touch? Not so much.
At least with the piece of Noah’s Ark, there’s some feeling of consistency with the ancient Egyptian art from Al-Zuras, the many earlier angel-related callings, and the mythological importance of the peacock to the Greek pantheon. There’s a certain Indiana Jones or...
- 5/7/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This Manifest review contains spoilers.
Manifest Season 3 Episodes 5 and 6
It was a smart move to air these two particular episodes of Manifest back-to-back, as it brings the meth-head arc to a close in an unexpected manner and pivots to a whole new way of looking at the death dates and the callings. There were plenty of big moments in “Water Landing” and “Graveyard Spiral” that made the two-hour event worth tuning in for, and the satisfying revelations glossed over some of the flaws that, as usual, come from character motivations that lack believability because of the prophetic compulsions that act as their only explanation.
Chief among these is the complete lack of chemistry between Pete and Angelina. We’re told that one criminal in “The Last Trial” parable chose love and was redeemed, but that analogue is far from adequate to explain the attachment between the two returnees, who seem...
Manifest Season 3 Episodes 5 and 6
It was a smart move to air these two particular episodes of Manifest back-to-back, as it brings the meth-head arc to a close in an unexpected manner and pivots to a whole new way of looking at the death dates and the callings. There were plenty of big moments in “Water Landing” and “Graveyard Spiral” that made the two-hour event worth tuning in for, and the satisfying revelations glossed over some of the flaws that, as usual, come from character motivations that lack believability because of the prophetic compulsions that act as their only explanation.
Chief among these is the complete lack of chemistry between Pete and Angelina. We’re told that one criminal in “The Last Trial” parable chose love and was redeemed, but that analogue is far from adequate to explain the attachment between the two returnees, who seem...
- 4/30/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This Manifest review contains spoilers.
Manifest Season 3 Episode 4
There are a few lines of dialogue in this week’s episode of Manifest that encapsulate how the audience must feel at this high point in the series. On the one hand, there’s Michaela being the voice of us all when witnessing Zeke’s cool new empathic powers: “That’s next level!” And as the mysteries pile up and threaten to overwhelm viewers, they might feel that Vance is speaking directly to them when he asks Ben, “How much are you willing to sacrifice to get to the truth?” With the resurrection concept becoming clearer (and cooler!) by the minute, the eagerness for more answers is palpable.
“Next level” might be more accurate than Mick realizes. Given what Olive and Angelina discovered this week about the tests Osiris placed before the souls of the dead, Zeke could indeed have reached a higher plane,...
Manifest Season 3 Episode 4
There are a few lines of dialogue in this week’s episode of Manifest that encapsulate how the audience must feel at this high point in the series. On the one hand, there’s Michaela being the voice of us all when witnessing Zeke’s cool new empathic powers: “That’s next level!” And as the mysteries pile up and threaten to overwhelm viewers, they might feel that Vance is speaking directly to them when he asks Ben, “How much are you willing to sacrifice to get to the truth?” With the resurrection concept becoming clearer (and cooler!) by the minute, the eagerness for more answers is palpable.
“Next level” might be more accurate than Mick realizes. Given what Olive and Angelina discovered this week about the tests Osiris placed before the souls of the dead, Zeke could indeed have reached a higher plane,...
- 4/23/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
Tj might be across the ocean for Manifest season 3, but Olive has a new university student to puzzle through the historical artifacts with: her father’s latest research assistant Levi, played by actor Will Peltz. Begrudgingly at first, Levi accepts Olive’s help with all of the Al-Zuras material coming in from Tj’s investigation in Egypt, something she worked on back in season two. The pair seem destined to bond despite their rocky start, and Peltz gave us some insight into the newest character on the show.
Peltz welcomed the chance to play a character whose intentions are good despite his initial arrogance in the latest episode of Manifest. “The cool thing about Levi and what really attracted me to the character was that he’s not stereotypical and he’s not just this one dimensional character,” he says. “I feel like this character could be just this… brainy,...
Peltz welcomed the chance to play a character whose intentions are good despite his initial arrogance in the latest episode of Manifest. “The cool thing about Levi and what really attracted me to the character was that he’s not stereotypical and he’s not just this one dimensional character,” he says. “I feel like this character could be just this… brainy,...
- 4/16/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This Manifest review contains spoilers.
Manifest Season 3 Episode 3
This week’s Manifest episode had a lot going for it. It had government intrigue (arguably the most fulfilling aspect of the serial story over the past three seasons), a satisfying puzzle-style calling, and a return of the deep historical mythology surrounding Al-Zuras. Some might argue there were too many balls in the air at once, but the overall effect was pretty solid nonetheless. It’s too early in the season to expect answers, but there’s always been a question of what we’re supposed to focus on with so much to speculate about.
Right now, the most entertainment is being provided by the various pieces being moved into place. Vance is such a unflappable badass, for example, and it’s nice to see him being brought back into the Nsa fold. Paradoxically, it was also somehow comforting that he turned...
Manifest Season 3 Episode 3
This week’s Manifest episode had a lot going for it. It had government intrigue (arguably the most fulfilling aspect of the serial story over the past three seasons), a satisfying puzzle-style calling, and a return of the deep historical mythology surrounding Al-Zuras. Some might argue there were too many balls in the air at once, but the overall effect was pretty solid nonetheless. It’s too early in the season to expect answers, but there’s always been a question of what we’re supposed to focus on with so much to speculate about.
Right now, the most entertainment is being provided by the various pieces being moved into place. Vance is such a unflappable badass, for example, and it’s nice to see him being brought back into the Nsa fold. Paradoxically, it was also somehow comforting that he turned...
- 4/16/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
The Minecraft 1.17 Caves and Cliffs update is one of the largest, most anticipated changes to the beloved sandbox game since its introduction a decade ago, but players will have to wait on some parts a bit longer than anticipated. Mojang has announced that Caves and Cliffs will be split into two releases with some modifications arriving on schedule this summer and others being pushed back for a holiday season release. Frustration or disappointment may prompt fans to wonder why the decision was made and which upgrades will not be included in round one.
Mojang’s announcement placed much of the blame on the difficult timeline for completing the huge project. “We’re striving to deliver as much fun content as possible without compromising on quality. However, due to the ambition level of this update and the current state of the world, we’ve found it difficult to deliver on this...
Mojang’s announcement placed much of the blame on the difficult timeline for completing the huge project. “We’re striving to deliver as much fun content as possible without compromising on quality. However, due to the ambition level of this update and the current state of the world, we’ve found it difficult to deliver on this...
- 4/15/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
This Manifest review contains spoilers.
Manifest Season 3 Episode 2
Secrets abound in Manifest season 3, and the promise of a payoff when those secrets are revealed is enticing in the extreme. Again, there’s always a few bumpy moments when the callings clunkily manipulate characters into their convenient narratives, but once everyone is in place, the story really has a chance to shine. Even minor details, like the fact that Zeke can read Saanvi’s mental state remarkably well these days, evoke curiosity and wonderment about how these developments will play out.
Let’s be real, though; Manifest has the irritating habit of expecting us to accept feelings and hunches in place of legitimate character motivations, and these meanderings were on particularly awkward display this week. For example, when Olive is convinced that she is meant to help Angelina with her calling, breaking up the family in a time of danger, she might as well add,...
Manifest Season 3 Episode 2
Secrets abound in Manifest season 3, and the promise of a payoff when those secrets are revealed is enticing in the extreme. Again, there’s always a few bumpy moments when the callings clunkily manipulate characters into their convenient narratives, but once everyone is in place, the story really has a chance to shine. Even minor details, like the fact that Zeke can read Saanvi’s mental state remarkably well these days, evoke curiosity and wonderment about how these developments will play out.
Let’s be real, though; Manifest has the irritating habit of expecting us to accept feelings and hunches in place of legitimate character motivations, and these meanderings were on particularly awkward display this week. For example, when Olive is convinced that she is meant to help Angelina with her calling, breaking up the family in a time of danger, she might as well add,...
- 4/9/2021
- by Michael Ahr
- Den of Geek
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